Ballard County Elementary School students take first, 10th place honors at National Junior Beta Club convention

Ballard County Elementary is celebrating the outstanding achievements of its students at the National Junior Beta Club Convention, held June 23-27 in Nashville.

The BCES Beta Blitz Team placed first in the nation in their competition. Beta Blitz is a creative competition in which teams design merchandise items such as T-shirts, trading pins, or banners, that incorporate themes and ideas related to the National Beta Club. The event challenges students to exercise their graphic design, marketing, and artistic talents, while working together as a team.

Members of the BCES Beta Blitz Team are Farren Drummond, Quinn Allen, Andrew Kinsey, Charlee Bodell, Kennedy Berry, Cadence Hammon, Harlowe Plummer, Blakely Newton, Chael Fox, and Elizabeth Loos.

In addition, Carlee Jane Hedges, daughter of Jon and Sara Jane Hedges of Paducah, placed 10th in the nation in cake decorating.

“As principal, I am incredibly proud of Carlee Jane and our Beta Blitz Team for the leadership they demonstrated at this national convention,” said BCES Principal Chris Sheffer. “These students used their individual strengths, encouraged one another, and represented Ballard County Elementary with character, confidence, and excellence. All of this is possible because of the dedication, time, and hard work of Ms. Stoner and Mrs. Hammon in preparing and supporting our students throughout this journey.”

“Eleven students represented our school on the national stage, and they did an amazing job,” said co-sponsor Bri Hammon. “These students worked throughout the entire school year and met every week this summer preparing for their competitions. They gave up time and worked hard, and we're so proud of their accomplishments.”

Co-sponsor Christina Stoner added, “Having students in two competitions rank in the top 10 in the nation at our school’s first-ever national convention is an achievement that we could not possibly have dreamed. While the wins are great, what Bri and I are most proud of is how our students carried themselves. They were humble in success and always some of the most respectful kids in every room.”

"BCES congratulates Carlee Jane Hedges, the Beta Blitz Team, Mrs. Hammon, Ms. Stoner, and all families and sponsors who supported these students throughout this national convention experience," Sheffer added.

Cutlines:

The national first-place Beta Blitz team from BCES is shown here from left, starting at bottom: Farren Drummond, Quinn Allen, Andrew Kinsey, Charlee Bodell, Kennedy Berry, Cadence Hammon, Harlowe Plummer, Blakely Newton, and Elizabeth Loos. Chael Fox is not pictured.

BCES student Carlee Jane Hedges won 10th place in the nation in cake decorating.